Eight-man football has a reputation for being a wide open and high-scoring game, filled with long runs and passes. But Boothbay Region’s first chapter in its eight-man football story had a different ending. Boothbay lost its first game 14-6 to Maranacook in Readfield Sept. 6. The game was a throwback to an old-fashioned smash mouth defensive struggle with both teams struggling to move the ball. Boothbay managed only one touchdown and gained 141 total yards.  

This was the third consecutive game Maranacook has beaten Boothbay dating back to the end of last season. The two squared off in last season’s final regular season game and a playoff contest the next weekend in Class E action. Both schools and eight other Class E competitors switched to eight-man football this season. Maranacook is one of five teams in the large school division. Boothbay is competing against four others in the small school division. But regardless of whether it’s eight-man or 11-man football, Maranacook has made life tough for Boothbay on the gridiron the past two seasons.

Maranacook scored on an 11-yard first quarter touchdown pass. Boothbay countered later in the first quarter on a 62-yard Michael Hollowell touchdown run. But that, and a 53-yard passing play to receiver Stephen Bennett, were the Seahawks’ offensive highlights. Hollowell led the team in rushing with 53 yards on eight rushes. The passing game didn’t fare any better. Senior quarterback Hunter Crocker completed four of 16 passes for 84 yards with one interception. Nick Morley led the team in receptions with three for 31 yards.

On defense, the Seahawks forced three Black Bear turnovers, held their opponents to two touchdowns, and allowed only 241 total yards. Hollowell made five tackles and assisted on five others. Kaeden Davis made four tackles and assisted in six others. He also recovered two fumbles. Nick Morley recorded the other turnover with an interception. 

Boothbay seeks its first win in eight-man football on Sept. 13 against Old Orchard Beach at Sherman Field. The Seagulls defeated Telstar 44-28 in their season opener last week.